The announcement came with a number of notable absentees including Yves Bissouma, Lassine Sinayoko, El Bilal Toure, Amadou Haidara, Sikou Niakate, Nene Dorgeles, Djigui Diarra, Hamari Traore, Mamadou Sangare, Woyo Coulibaly, Kamory Doumbia, Mohamed Camara, and Lassana Coulibaly.
Mali play Russia at the Gazprom Arena in Saint Petersburg in their first ever meeting, as part of the Eagles' preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
According to Africa Soccer: "The absence of several first-choice players poses a challenge for Mali, as the squad will rely heavily on younger and less experienced talents to fill the gaps. Nonetheless, the team retains a mix of seasoned internationals and promising prospects, providing coach an opportunity to assess emerging talent ahead of future competitive fixtures."
Full Mali squad:
Goalkeepers: Mamadou Samassa, Ismail Diawara, N’golo Traore
Defenders: Amadou Dante, Nathan Gassama, Abdoulaye Diaby, Mamadou Fofana, Ibrahima Cisse, Cheick Oumar Konate, Alpha Sissoko, Fode Doucoure
Midfielders: Aliou Dieng, Ibrahima Sissoko, Soumaila Diabate, Moussa Diakite, Mamadou Maiga, Kalidou Sidibe, Ousmane Diakite
Forwards: Gaoussou Diakite, Gaoussou Diarra, Wilson Samake, Mamadou Doumbia, Mamadou Camara, Harouna Camara
